Walhalla judicial board makes quick decision

In fewer than 15 minutes last night, Kay Owens of Walhalla got what she needed. The city’s board of zoning appeals granted Owens an exception to the zoning ordinance that will allow her to apply to the state for a beer and wine permit for her Palmetto Bakery and Café on Main Street. Walhalla has a rule requiring anyone—a bar, a restaurant, a convenience store—to first apply for a zoning exception before seeking a beer and wine permit from the state. James Ashton, Walhalla zoning administrator, said the crowd during last night’s public hearing was large, but all were apparently in support of the application. No one spoke in opposition and the five appeals board members present voted in the affirmative.